A PPE Question

[ellwood1]

Proper PPE for extrication has been covered here before, however we are looking at a small change to the equation.

Our policy it that we wear structural gear for extrication. We also have a rope team that wears lightwieght wildland nomex for rope rescues.

What should we do when the two are combined. Western Oregon being a mountainous area we have a lot of opportunities for vehicles to go off the road down steep embankments. This was the initial reason we developed a rope rescue team. Thus far we have not had to cut anyone out of a vehicle off the embankment, but it could happen anytime.

I am responsible for vehicle rescue training, and I feel if your going in a wrecked vehicle you should have full structural gear on.

Our rope rescue trainers main concerns are that bunker gear would cause over exertion and overheating, plus the harnesses don't fit over the bunker gear.

Also It should be noted that our budget is extremely limited to say the least so buying a several new harnesses or lighter weight extrication style coat pants or overalls is not an option at this time.

Thoughts anyone?

[rmoore]

Assuming that full structural PPE is mandatory for vehicle extrication personnel who go 'inside the vehicle' is probably a flawed assumption.

What you may want to consider is something that goes like this;

The following personal protective clothing and equipment is required for each individual participating in hands-on vehicle rescue evolutions;

Head Protection-
Fire Department helmet, technical rescue helmet, or OSHA-compliant industrial-style hardhat

Eye Protection-
Eye protection must consist of OSHA-compliant safety glasses or goggles with side shields.

NO flip-down helmet face shield can be used alone as eye protection.

Safety goggles or glasses must be donned by all participants.

Body Protection-
Fire department style turnout coat with bunker pants.

If approved by the participant’s authority having jurisdiction, in lieu of a structural turnout coat, a Wildland brush-style jacket is acceptable worn over heavy work pants or bunker pants.

Long-sleeved coveralls are acceptable as body protection if approved by the participant’s authority having jurisdiction.

Steel-toed high-topped work boots are acceptable in lieu of rubber firefighting boots when used with bunker pants.

Foot Protection-
Fire department boot or steel-toed work boots used with bunker pants.

Hand Protection-
Structural firefighting gloves are acceptable.

Leather-palmed work gloves are acceptable.

The new generation of extrication gloves available from several manufacturers are also permitted.

Hearing Protection-
Hearing protection should be available for use by all rescue personnel. T